Filipina suspect wanted in Toronto immigration fraud case
The suspect, identified as Maria Corpuz, 43, is currently the subject of an active manhunt and is facing several criminal charges, including three counts of fraud under $5,000, three counts of false pretense under $5,000, and two counts of uttering forged documents.
According to a statement released by the Toronto Police, Corpuz allegedly offered immigration services to multiple individuals between May 2023 and May 2025. She reportedly operated in the Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue area, a bustling commercial district in midtown Toronto.
Investigators say that Corpuz presented herself as someone who could assist clients in processing Canadian citizenship applications and work permits. Victims claimed that they paid thousands of dollars to Corpuz, trusting her promises of legitimate immigration assistance. In return, they were provided with what appeared to be official documents from the Canadian government.
However, the scheme unraveled when the victims later discovered that the services rendered were not authorized or legitimate. Upon verification, the documents turned out to be fraudulent, and the victims were left with no legal immigration status despite having paid significant amounts of money.
Toronto Police believe that there may be more victims who have yet to come forward and are urging anyone who may have had similar dealings with Corpuz to contact authorities.
The suspect is currently unaccounted for, and law enforcement officials have publicly released her photograph in the hopes that someone from the community can provide information on her whereabouts. Authorities have emphasized that any information, no matter how small, may be vital in locating and apprehending Corpuz.
In their appeal to the public, police are also encouraging Corpuz to seek legal counsel and turn herself in peacefully.
Fraud cases involving immigration services have been on the rise in recent years, with many unsuspecting individuals falling victim to scams due to a lack of awareness or desperation to regularize their status. Law enforcement agencies across Canada continue to educate the public on how to identify licensed immigration consultants and avoid being exploited.
Anyone with information regarding the location of Maria Corpuz is urged to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-3100 or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477). — BM, GMA Integrated News
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